Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Princeton, WV
Considering a move to Princeton, WV? This friendly city of 5,679 residents offers a low cost of living, with median home prices around $116,000 and average rents of $750. Commutes are short at about 21 minutes, and the climate brings warm summers and over 55% sunny days. While crime rates are higher than the national average, Princeton features close-knit neighborhoods, access to Princeton Community Hospital, and several public schools — making it a budget-friendly option for those seeking small-town charm in southern West Virginia.
Demographics - Princeton, WV
Demographics - Princeton, WV
Princeton is a small city with a population of 5,679, featuring a predominantly White community and a median age of 41, which suggests a mature and stable population. The gender ratio is fairly balanced, and the area is characterized by a moderate population density, making it suitable for those who value a close-knit, quieter environment.
Population:
5,679
Density:
1,800 per sq mi
Median Age:
41.2
Gender Ratio:
90 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
2.5%
Ethnic Composition
White:
86.2%
Black:
8.1%
Asian:
1.1%
Others:
4.6%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Princeton, WV?
Princeton offers a notably affordable cost of living, with median home values around $116,000 and average rents at $750, well below national averages. Utility costs and state taxes are moderate, making the city an attractive option for budget-conscious individuals and families.
Median House Value:
$116,000
Gross Rent:
$750
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$145
Auto Insurance:
$1,240
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,050
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$360
State Taxes:
Low:
3.0%
|
High:
6.5%
Cost Of Living Index:
76.8
Grocery:
92.0
Housing:
44.2
Utilities:
104.0
Transportation:
86.0
Health Care:
90.2
Miscellaneous:
89.5
Crime
Is Princeton, WV a safe place to live?
Crime rates in Princeton are higher than the national average, with a 1 in 46 chance of property crime and a 1 in 310 chance of violent crime. Residents should be aware of these statistics and take appropriate precautions when considering neighborhoods.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
320
Property Crimes Per 100k:
2,180
Crime Index:
2,500
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 310
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 46
Weather
What is the weather like in Princeton, WV year-round?
The climate in Princeton features warm summers with highs around 83°F, cool winters, and roughly 41.5 inches of annual rainfall. With 56% of days being sunny, residents enjoy a pleasant mix of seasonal changes and outdoor opportunities.
Winter
Min:
25°F
Max:
42°F
Spring
Min:
44°F
Max:
69°F
Summer
Min:
63°F
Max:
83°F
Fall
Min:
46°F
Max:
70°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
41.5 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
56%
Neighbors
Princeton’s residents have a median income of $28,800 and a poverty rate of 23.7%, reflecting modest economic conditions. The community values education, with over 80% holding a high school diploma or higher, and average commute times are a manageable 21 minutes.
Median Income:
$28,800
Household Income:
$38,900
Family Income:
$48,500
Per Capita Income:
$19,400
Income Male:
$37,800
Income Female:
$28,100
Poverty Rate:
23.7%
Non English Speakers:
2.5%
Rent:
$750
Unemployment Rate:
7.4%
Public Transport Usage:
0.7%
Commute Time:
21.1 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
81.8%
Bachelors or More:
19.2%
Education
How are the schools in Princeton, WV?
Princeton offers a range of educational options, including public schools with favorable student-teacher ratios and a private school alternative. For higher education, Concord University is located just 10 miles away, making college-level studies convenient for local students.
Public Schools
Name:
Princeton Primary School
Street:
180 Tiger Dr
Phone:
304-487-5235
Students:
650
Student Teacher Ratio:
14.5
Name:
Princeton Middle School
Street:
300 Tiger Dr
Phone:
304-487-5252
Students:
900
Student Teacher Ratio:
15.2
Private Schools
Name:
Mercy Christian School
Street:
270 Oakvale Rd
Phone:
304-425-5091
Students:
120
Colleges
Name:
Concord University
City:
Athens
State:
WV
Distance:
10 miles
Students:
1,800
Healthcare
Healthcare in Princeton is anchored by Princeton Community Hospital, which provides general and emergency services to the community. With 1.4 physicians per 1,000 residents and nearly 90% health insurance coverage, basic medical needs are well supported locally.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Princeton Community Hospital
Address:
122 12th St, Princeton, WV 24740
Phone:
(304) 487-7000
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
1.4
Health Insurance Coverage:
89.6%
Health Care Index:
67.4
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Princeton, WV?
The local housing market is affordable, with a median home price of $116,000 and a homeownership rate near 60%. Renters benefit from a reasonable vacancy rate and stable rental prices, making both buying and renting accessible options.
Median Home Price:
$116,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$750
Owner Occupied Rate:
59.2%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
10.3%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
3.2%
New Construction Rate:
0.3%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.8%
DMV Information
Residents can access driver and vehicle services through the West Virginia Division of Motor Vehicles, with comprehensive information available online and support at the main Charleston office. State DMV resources are easily accessible for licensing, registration, and other motor vehicle needs.
State:
West Virginia
Department:
West Virginia Division of Motor Vehicles
Address:
2000 E. Washington St, Charleston, WV 25317
Phone:
1-800-642-9066
Website:
Disclaimer: The information provided on this page is based on publicly available sources including AccuWeather, U.S. Census Bureau, local government data, and third-party partners such as Neustar. While we strive to ensure accuracy, all data is provided “as is” and should be independently verified before making any decisions. Movers.com makes no guarantees regarding the completeness or reliability of the information.